Starting in the 1820s, Lake Park began to grow as an agricultural community. Some 60 years later, when farmer and landowner Lawrence Arthur Wisenbaker pushed for construction of a railroad through the city, the Georgia Southern and Florida Railroad ensured Lake Park's continued development.

Developer Burton Lee Mank also played a critical role in shaping Lake Park; he envisioned Twin Lakes, a master suburb centered around the Ponce De Leon and Balboa lakes. Understanding the importance of strengthening the new community, Mank also opened the Twin Lakes Country Club.

In 1991 Lake Park celebrated its centennial and founded the Lake Park Historical Society. The society manages the Lake Park Museum, which now resides in the city's restored 1890s-era general store. Museum visitors can currently see displays of local historical photographs, furniture, farming and medical objects, and textiles.